So whats the skinny on black thunders? How long have they been around, what sizes do they offer? I haven't seen many around or many for sale. I might want one someday but cant afford a new one.
I did see the patriyacht last Sunday going thru metro. I was in the White and purple powerplay. Dont know if you noticed us.

Hi Dono,

Black Thunder's are built in Hannibal Missouri by the Jenkins family, same owners since the beginning. They began in 1988 with a 32 footer, and in the early 90's began building their 43'. Today they build a flat deck 43' GT, in a stepped and non step version, and a 46' tall deck version in either an extended cockpit and or three bolsters in front and bench seat in the rear. Their website is blackthunder.com.

I own a 2000 model 43' tall deck (tall deck refers to the cabin model with app. 6'10" of headroom.) Mine is the three bolster up front and bench seat in the rear configuration and powered by triple 700's. She runs in the low 90's.

They build between 15 and 24 boats per year, virtually all of them built to order. They sell thru factory reps as opposed to a dealer network. Any warranty claims, etc. are handled by your local approved service center or marina, and reimbursed or paid for by Black Thunder.

You'll find mid to late 90 43's selling in the $125,000 and up category, and step bottom 43' like mine, year 98 and forward beginning at about $145,000. Late models, like 2003 and forward can be found in the mid to upper 200's depending on power.

Give them a call in Hannibal and they'll be happy to set up a factory tour for you. There are several BT owners near you in Michigan like Tim Conklin from Bloomfield Hills (and Port Sanilac on summer weekends), his boat is called Horseplay. It's a 46 with triple 675's, gorgeous boat.

Hope this helps,

Steve

Steve,
well that explains why you dont see many around, I didnt realize they built so few. I would be looking for something with stock power. Im trying to avoid a cruiser, so maybe a hudge offshore would fit my needs and wants. Thanks for all the info.

Take a look at my '97 twin step tall deck in the classifieds. It has the wood interior rather than the plastic trim on the older models. The 43 foot seems to handle better than the early 46 foot. Joe Murray

f311fr1,
That is very nice, i've got to sell my powerplay first and get some finances in order but when im ready that is what i want.

What size Powerplay? If it is a 33 give me some details. Joe Murray

I posted it over in the Powerplay section. Yes its a 33 sportdeck. Im struggling with the idea of selling it but i may need to free up some cash as im heading towards divorce. I'll try and get some pics posted in the next few days.

Hi Dono, I remember seeing several powerquests and powerplays. I always look at the other Offshores and wonder if any of them are OSO members, did you wave? For a while we had Ian's 80 year old parents on board so we were going slow. We like our BT because we sleep aboard just about every time we go out, we are both getting older so we like the comfort but still not ready (if ever) for a cruiser. Joe's boat is a beauty and an extremely good value. We started thinking about BT's in the mid 90's and finally got ours 3 years ago, so be careful what you wish for

I would like to buy a 46 with triple 525s but i need to make more cash

Dono,
Is your Powerplay the one that sits on the hydro hoist across from the harbor master sometimes? If so, that is a nice looking boat.